February 4: Fellowship in Loneliness

I am with you always, even to the end of the age.  - Matthew 28:20

Different types of loneliness invade our lives. Standing at the gravestone of a loved one, we feel the pang of separation. When there are no messages on our cell phones, we long to hear the voice of someone who cares.

Whethere you're a pastor, ministry leader, spouse, parent or child, you have likely experienced loneliness somewhere along life's journey. If you ache with loneliness, remember that you're in good company. the Bible gives abundant examples of lonely saints.

Event the apostle Paul, an incredibly gifted and blessed man, was not immune to loneliness. He was taken to heaven and shown things too wonderful to share with earthly beings. He authored much of the New Testament and founded all the missionary churches during New Testament times. But on occasion, he ached with loneliness: "At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me" (2 Timothy 4:16).

Today you may encounter a lonely person hiding behind a smile. If you were that person, how would you hope to be greeted? Friendship is a sure antidote to a lonely soul. Be cheerful medicine to someone today.

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The next time you find yourself alone... stand still, whisper [God's] name, and listen. He is nearer than you think. - Max Lucado